Starting to study for the SHRM CP exam can seem a little daunting, especially for HR professionals who juggle deadlines, workloads, and personal commitments. This test is designed not just to test candidates on HR textbook material, but also on HR decision-making in real-world situations. Nowadays, more companies are hiring HR professionals with a human resources certification than those without, as it indicates knowledge of employees, compliance, communication, and leadership.
HR professionals with the SHRM certification make, on average, about 20% more annually than non-certified HR professionals and have greater access to management and leadership opportunities, according to industry reports. However, to pass, careful planning and a steady strategy are needed. In this guide, we will cover what it takes to apply for and take the SHRM CP test, including the fee and study time, SHRM exam prep, key topics, preparation methods, common mistakes, and essential test tips.
The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) exam is one of the top globally recognized HR certification exams. The SHRM-CP is geared toward professionals who perform day-to-day HR operations within an organization or participate in HR decision-making. Traditional tests measure knowledge acquisition; however, the SHRM CP exam tests both HR technical knowledge and behavioral competence. It tests how a candidate will react and what they will do in situations involving employees, leadership, compliance, and ethical practice. The exam contains about 134 questions, including a mix of situational judgment tests and knowledge-based multiple-choice questions. Candidates are given 4 hours to complete the examination.
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Applying for the SHRM CP is a rather straightforward process, but make sure you understand the requirements before filling out the application.
1. Check if you qualify: The majority of candidates are eligible if they are involved in the HR aspect of their business either by education or by occupation, as long as they have a relevant working background. SHRM now has very flexible requirements and allows most individuals in HR to achieve the certification.
2. Create a SHRM account: You will need to set up an online profile with the SHRM certification portal before registering.
3. Choose an exam window: There are testing periods for each year for you to select your SHRM CP test and have the choice of either.
4. Submit your application and payment: Complete the final registration and pay your SHRM CP exam fees.
The cost to take the SHRM CP test will vary depending on your SHRM membership and how far in advance of the testing period you choose to take it.
The typical cost to take the exam without a membership will be about $510, while SHRM members can expect to pay about $410.
Keep in mind that some companies offer to cover the costs of HR certification for their employees as an incentive.
It is recommended that candidates allocate 8-12 weeks to properly prepare for the SHRM CP test. Overall, it's best to spend 60-120 hours of total study time; however, this may be less or more depending on how new you are to the world of HR. Generally, a balanced study approach will yield more favorable results. Below is a possible outline of an 8-week study plan:
Consistently studying for 1-2 hours a day can yield greater gains than cramming on weekends.
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Understanding what the exam covers is a critical first step toward preparing for the SHRM CP. The test will cover two major categories:
As the SHRM CP test emphasizes understanding how HR decisions are applied, behavioral competency questions are often emphasized.
There are many helpful study resources available for those preparing to take the SHRM CP exam.
Study material should provide consistent, focused test preparation that emphasizes the application of information and proper study tactics.
Understand concepts: Know the reason why decisions or applications of HR concepts were chosen rather than just remembering the knowledge or facts. The test tests critical thinking.
Study according to the SHRM BASK: the Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge covers all of the behavioral competencies to be tested and helps organize your studies.
Practice test time management: Take a timed practice test to learn how to pace yourself during the test and help ease any exam anxiety you might have.
Review weaker areas weekly: Be sure to pay extra attention to and work on areas of HR where you feel least confident so they don't pose an issue on test day.
Most candidates run into trouble with the SHRM CP test when they study for it as if it were any traditional test. Some of these common mistakes include:
As a general rule, focus more on quality versus quantity when it comes to studying; don't overload yourself with countless notes and books.
During the last week before your test day, you will want to shift from learning new material to reviewing. Here are some recommendations:
Resting your mind and feeling calm will make it easier to perform well on your SHRM CP test than studying nonstop until test day.
Taking the SHRM CP test might initially appear intimidating, but with a well-thought-out study strategy and disciplined study habits, it becomes manageable. Certification can help validate your HR expertise while opening up the door to better career opportunities, salary prospects, and leadership roles. In this guide, we outlined the ways to register for and take the SHRM CP test, its fee structure and required study time, test-taking strategies, and common errors.
Following a structured SHRM CP study guide and applying your knowledge in real-world contexts regularly is highly encouraged to increase your chances of success on test day. With adequate preparation and confidence, an SHRM certification can be a valuable career move for any human resources professional.
Many HR professionals believe the SHRM CP has a stronger focus on decision-making and leadership in the workplace than the PHR. While the PHR focuses primarily on technical compliance knowledge, the SHRM certification tests behavioral competence and real-world HR skills.
Yes, the SHRM CP exam is now available through remotely supervised testing or testing at authorized locations. It is recommended that you have adequate internet access, a webcam and mic setup, and a quiet place to test.
If you do not pass the SHRM CP test, you will need to re-register and submit the payment of the test fee again in the future exam period. But SHRM requires candidates to retake the test in the next available exam session.
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